Category Archives: Junior Derby

John G. McCullough’s children’s summer reading program continues with an event 2pm July 9, hosted in partnership with Southshire Roller Derby at 441 Water Street where attendees will get to Skype (video chat) with Roller Girl author Victoria Jaimeson.

Attendees should note, the space is NOT handicap accessible as we are a private training facility not open to the general public. There is a long set of stairs to access our private practice space.

For most of her twelve years, Astrid has done everything with her best friend Nicole. But after Astrid falls in love with roller derby and signs up for derby camp, Nicole decides to go to dance camp instead. And so begins the most difficult summer of Astrid’s life as she struggles to keep up with the older girls at camp, hang on to the friend she feels slipping away, and cautiously embark on a new friendship. As the end of summer nears and her first roller derby bout (and junior high!) draws closer, Astrid realizes that maybe she is strong enough to handle the bout, a lost friendship, and middle school… in short, strong enough to be a roller girl.

In this graphic novel debut that earned a Newbery Honor and five starred reviews, real-life derby girl Victoria Jamieson has created an inspiring coming-of-age story about friendship, perseverence, and girl power!

More about the Joint Event

There will be some video of derby here in Bennington County as well as skaters on hand to demonstrate skills and strategy in real life. Parents, caregivers, and children are welcome to visit our training facility and explore the equipment and space that it requires to learn the sport. The library has obtained a couple signed copies of Roller Girl to raffle off at the event.

Just a block south of the library, Southshire Roller Derby trains men and women, boys and girls ages 6 – 100 how to skate, officiate, and play the game of flat track roller derby. Junior Summer Season begins July 12. Members of the league will remain after to answer questions about joining junior or adult derby.